How To | February 24, 2015
Before we know it, it will be spring and the busy moving season will be soon upon us. May through September are the busiest months to move. Starting to plan for your move as early as possible will help with the anxiety of moving day. Moving Day is normally a stress filled day for humans, but it can also be extremely stressful for the family pet. If you are moving pets across town or across the city, you need to plan ahead. Check with your new state or city for any specific regulations that require you to get a pet license or provide pet health records. If you have exotic pets, some states have laws on how to properly house these types of animals.
If you are packing for your move and realize that you do not have room in your car to take your pet with you, then you can hire an animal transport service to take your pet to your new home. These services will treat your pet just as their own with regular rest stops and food breaks. These services help to relieve some of the stress of moving with a dog or cat for you. There are a few things that will need to be taken care of to make your pet is ready for transport including: making sure that they have all of their shots, their medical records are up-to-date, their claws are trimmed and they are crate-trained. Make sure to pack a bag for your pet including the following: food, toys, bedding, special blanket, leash, ID tags, health records and any special care instructions. The animal transport groups are a great option for stressed out movers!
If you are moving with a dog or cat via your car, there are preparations to make the trip comfortable for you and your pet. For transport during a move, a pet should be carrier and crate trained. It is essential that the crate is big enough for the pet to get up, move around and lie down during the journey, especially long trips. The carrier should have cross ventilation and a leak proof bottom. If needed, add extra absorbent layers of blankets or towels to the bottom of the crate. Before you travel for your move, do not feed or water your pet for a few hours before you leave.
Once you are on the road, only feed them once a day, but make frequent stops for walking and water. If possible, bring extra water from home, as different water could upset the pet’s stomach. While traveling in the car, do not let the pet hang out the window. Bugs and dirt can get in the pet’s eyes causing infections. Keep the windows locked to prevent pets from lowering the windows and jumping out. If you are transporting the animal on an airplane, check with the airlines about allowing pets in the cabin or if they need to be put in the cargo section of the plane. Once you have arrived at your new home, give your pet time to get used to their new surroundings. At first, limit the number of rooms that you allow them in and then gradually increase their freedom around the entire house. Give your pets their food in their favorite dish and have their favorite toys, blanket and bedding nearby to make them feel at home. The familiar smells with help them adjust easier and quicker to their new location.
There are many stresses that come with moving day. Being prepared with moving and packing supplies, a moving inventory list, and a moving day plan for the family and the family pet can help elevate some of the stress. Good Luck with your move!
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